ATEEZ's Hongjoong has been bombarded by claims that he had shaded HYBE Labels and founder Bang Si Hyuk in the lyrics of "SMB," a fiery track he collaborated with rapper Odetari.
As speculations intensified, KQ Entertainment released a statement, saying that they don't "have any official position" on the matter, as per TV REPORT.
While many were hyped by the track, others believed that some of the lyrics were direct jabs against the multi-label company and Bang, due to the former's leaked internal document containing derogatory comments regarding other idols' appearances and skills.
Specifically, Bang's mention was allegedly apparent in some lines that said, "Why are you mad? / Do you think you have made it, hitman? / If you have time to observe others / Then watch your own back instead / Du-du-du, bang."
As for the document's alleged callout, some lyrics stated, "A life of jealousy and envy / Blindly mocking while slandering people with insulting remarks."
HYBE's internal file became the center of discussion at the National Assembly's Culture, Sports, and Tours Committee. Due to the backlash it received from the public, HYBE CEO Lee Jae Sang officially apologized to the affected artists, stakeholders, and fans.
On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), ATEEZ's fans, ATINYs, reacted to the lyrics.
This is 100% about hybe and bsh, "hitman" bang is bsh's name that he uses for writing credits https://t.co/jtCKrvr7x9 pic.twitter.com/P8KWBVxTdz
— linxskippingstonesdefender (@intohibernatio) January 16, 2025
bsh deserve for not minding his own business and ruining other groups to uplift his. pathetic loser https://t.co/VF3XUn4wkr
— look at me 🩵 (@jisiu_) January 16, 2025
